Perfect Pumpkin Fry Bread: A Fall Delight You Can’t Resist

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, pumpkin flavors begin to take over our kitchens.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Pumpkin Fry Bread Recipefried

One delightful fall treat that blends seasonal pumpkin with the warmth of fry bread is pumpkin fry bread. Imagine a lightly crisp exterior with a fluffy, flavorful inside, all infused with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, pumpkin fry bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Pumpkin Fry BreadPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

In this article, I’ll take you through the process of making perfect pumpkin fry bread, share some tips for the best results, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you get it just right every time.

What Is Pumpkin Fry Bread?

Pumpkin fry bread is a variation of traditional Native American fry bread, which is a simple dough deep-fried until golden and crispy. The addition of pumpkin puree brings a seasonal twist, adding flavor, moisture, and a lovely orange hue to the dough. It’s often enjoyed with sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, honey, or maple syrup, but can also be paired with savory accompaniments for a versatile dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to make: No advanced skills are needed; you can whip this up with pantry staples.
• Perfect for fall: The pumpkin flavor brings out the warmth and coziness of the autumn season.
• Versatile: You can enjoy it with sweet or savory toppings, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Fry Bread

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup warm water (you may need more)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the topping (optional):

• Cinnamon sugar
• Maple syrup
• Honey
• Whipped cream
• Butter

How to Make Pumpkin Fry Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Add the pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree, mixing until it starts to come together.
3. Add water: Gradually add warm water, starting with 1/4 cup. Mix until the dough becomes soft but not too sticky. If needed, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
4. Knead the dough: Lightly flour your surface and knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

1. Divide the dough: Once kneaded, divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions (depending on the size of fried bread you want).
2. Flatten the dough: Take each piece of dough and gently flatten it with your hands or a rolling pin to about 1/4-inch thickness. Don’t worry about perfect shapes; rustic is beautiful!

Step 3: Fry the Bread

1. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a large skillet so it’s about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (or until a small piece of dough sizzles when placed in the oil).
2. Fry the bread: Carefully place the flattened dough into the hot oil, one or two at a time. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and puffed up.
3. Drain excess oil: Remove the fried bread from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

While the fry bread is still warm, you can brush it with melted butter and sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar or serve it with your favorite toppings. Sweet options like maple syrup, honey, or whipped cream are classic, but you can also get creative with savory toppings like cream cheese or spiced pumpkin butter.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Fry Bread

1. Don’t overmix the dough: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can lead to dense fry bread.
2. Monitor the oil temperature: Frying at too high a temperature will burn the bread, while too low a temperature will make it greasy. Aim for medium-high heat and adjust as needed.
3. Test the dough for stickiness: You want a dough that’s slightly tacky but not too sticky to handle. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
4. Flatten the dough evenly: This ensures the fry bread cooks evenly and puffs up nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned. Just make sure it’s not too watery. If your fresh puree is watery, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.

2. Can I bake the fry bread instead of frying it?

While traditional fry bread is deep-fried, you can bake it for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the flattened dough on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before frying.

4. How do I store leftover fry bread?

Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

5. Can I freeze pumpkin fry bread?

Absolutely! To freeze, allow the fry bread to cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven straight from the freezer until warmed through.

6. What other toppings can I try?

Pumpkin fry bread pairs well with a variety of toppings. For a sweet treat, try powdered sugar, caramel sauce, or even chocolate syrup. For savory, think of spiced yogurt, cream cheese, or even a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce for a unique twist.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your gluten-free flour mix contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture.

8. What can I serve alongside pumpkin fry bread?

Pumpkin fry bread is great on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or chili. It also works as a side for breakfast or brunch alongside scrambled eggs or bacon.

Conclusion

Pumpkin fry bread is an indulgent, seasonal twist on a classic favorite. It’s warm, fluffy, and packed with pumpkin flavor, making it perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy treat on chilly evenings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with a wide range of toppings, both sweet and savory. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying pumpkin fry bread in no time!